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Shrimp Scampi Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 57 reviews

Shrimp Scampi Dip is a rich and creamy appetizer that combines succulent shrimp sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce with layers of cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and melted cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, this dip offers a bright hint of lemon and a gentle warmth from red pepper flakes, perfect for parties, gatherings, or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Scampi Base

  • 1 pound medium shrimp (31–40 count per pound), peeled, deveined, and tails removed (raw or pre-cooked)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5–6 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or dry Chardonnay), or substitute with chicken broth or lemon juice mixed with water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Creamy Dip Base

  • 8 ounces (1 block) full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup good quality mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup full-fat sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided (1/2 cup for mixing, 1/2 cup for topping)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, plus extra for garnish

For Serving (optional)

  • Sliced baguette (toasted or untoasted)
  • Assorted crackers (water crackers, pita chips, or buttery club crackers)
  • Celery sticks
  • Carrot sticks
  • Bell pepper strips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat raw shrimp dry and chop into 1/2 to 3/4-inch pieces for easy scooping. If using pre-cooked shrimp, chop similarly.
  2. Sauté the Scampi Base: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant without burning. Add raw shrimp, cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Pour in white wine (or substitute), simmer 2-3 minutes to reduce and cook off alcohol. Stir in lemon juice and zest. If using pre-cooked shrimp, add after wine reduction and warm 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Create the Creamy Dip Base: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until smooth. Stir in Parmesan, half the mozzarella, and chopped parsley until combined.
  4. Combine and Assemble: Pour the shrimp mixture with pan juices into the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold until shrimp are evenly distributed. Adjust seasoning as desired.
  5. Bake the Dip: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the dip to a 1.5 to 2-quart oven-safe dish or 9-inch pie plate, spreading evenly. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top and optionally add extra Parmesan for a golden crust.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly, cheese melted and golden brown. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  7. Rest and Garnish: Remove from oven, let rest 5-10 minutes to set and meld flavors. Garnish with additional fresh parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, and lemon wedges if desired. Serve warm with assorted dippers.

Notes

  • Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture; shrimp will finish cooking in the oven.
  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for best flavor, especially garlic, lemon, and cheeses.
  • Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps.
  • The dip can be assembled in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking; allow to come to room temperature before baking and increase cook time by 5-10 minutes if baking cold.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to customize spice level.
  • Leftovers last 3-4 days refrigerated; not recommended to freeze due to texture changes.
  • Serve warm for best melted cheese and flavor experience.

Keywords: Shrimp Scampi Dip, seafood dip, appetizer recipe, party dip, baked dip, shrimp appetizer, creamy dip, garlic butter shrimp

Find it online: https://cheframi.com/shrimp-scampi-dip-recipe/